Recognition Theory and Contemporary French Moral and Political Philosophy Reappraising the Political Hardcover

The revival of recognition theory has brought new energy to critical theory, producing an original paradigm for critically evaluating social structures. In general terms, recognition theory aims to assess social practices against a standard of social freedom identified with norms of interaction which are freely recognised by all parties. Until now, attention has primarily focused on the categories and forms of recognition theory. However, the influence of contemporary French theory upon the development of theories of recognition has not yet received the consideration it merits. The book takes up this task. Both pedagogical and critical, this collection outlines the current state of recognition theory, studies the influence of French theory upon its evolution, and uses French thought to identity aspects of the recognitive process which are often overlooked. With chapters by internationally recognised scholars including Axel Honneth, the book explores the continuing importance for recognition theory of French accounts of agonistic identity construction, embodied vulnerability, systematic oppression, ethical obligation, and reflexive theory construction. The chapters not only reconstruct the different ways in which contemporary French philosophy has already informed the work of thinkers like Axel Honneth, Nancy Fraser, Iris Marion Young, Judith Butler, and James Tully, they also identify new ways in which French thought might continue to inform the development of theories of recognition. It is our hope that this book will contribute to a continuing dialogue between recognition theory and contemporary French philosophy, supporting the intentions of critical theory with heightened attentiveness to oppression in all of its forms.